14 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Houston, TX

Last Updated on September 11, 2024.

Houston, a city full of life and endless energy, is the perfect destination for family fun. Whether you’re exploring a kids’ escape room or visiting science museums, Houston offers unique experiences for everyone.

Imagine a place where rockets fuel the imagination, parks become magical play spaces, and museums unlock a world of discovery. In Houston, every corner offers new adventures that kids and adults alike will love.

Let’s dive into some of the best things to do with kids in Houston!

#1 Ice at The Galleria

Ice Skating at the Ice at The Galleria in Houston is a magical experience for families, especially with kids. Nestled in the heart of the Galleria Mall, this stunning year-round indoor ice rink offers breathtaking views of the mall’s multi-levels. 

It’s more than just skating; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories. They offer public skating sessions, Learn to Skate classes, and various group events, including birthday parties. The unique ‘no in and out policy’ ensures a full-day adventure without interruptions. 

With ongoing enhancements, including a state-of-the-art renovation project, the rink promises a dazzling and safe environment for all ages. Imagine gliding on ice under designer LED-lit ceilings – it’s an enchanting experience not to be missed!

#2 Space Center Houston

Visiting Space Center Houston is a must-do for families, especially for those curious about space! This top-tier science and space exploration center offers educational and fun experiences, perfect for inspiring young minds.

Kids can take part in immersive Explorer Camps, meet NASA astronauts, and enjoy the interactive exhibits. With over 400 activities to explore, the Space Center stands out as one of the best things to do in Houston today with kids. Don’t miss out on the space-themed holiday light show or historic relics like the John F. Kennedy Lectern.

It’s a journey through the stars that your family will cherish forever.

#3 Exit Lab Houston

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Escape to a world of adventure at Exit Lab Houston, where families can bond over thrilling escape room games! Perfect for kids aged 8 and up, our rooms offer a variety of challenges, from the festive puzzles of “The Nice List” to the mysterious “Hotel Secrets” and the creative “Crazy Artist’s Workshop.” 

Each room is designed to engage and excite, with age-appropriate difficulties and player capacities. Whether you’re navigating a zombie escape room or uncovering hidden treasures, Exit Lab Houston promises an unforgettable experience. 

It’s an ideal destination for families seeking a unique and entertaining outing. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories with your kids in a fun, interactive setting!

#4 Houston Area Live Steamers – Mini Train Rides for Families

If your kids love trains, don’t miss Houston Area Live Steamers (HALS). This charming attraction offers free rides on miniature trains, making it a budget-friendly and delightful activity for kids and adults alike. Open from March through November, HALS has been entertaining families since 1991, creating memories that last a lifetime.

This fun activity is perfect for both train enthusiasts and families looking for a unique outing, placing it among the best kids activities in Houston.

#5 Little Beakers Science Lab for Kids

For a more educational experience, Little Beakers Science Lab is an amazing destination for young scientists. This real science lab, designed specifically for children, offers hands-on experiments and activities. Open Lab sessions allow kids to explore up to 30 science experiments, with guided labs also available.

Little Beakers hosts birthday parties and educational workshops, making it one of the most unique kids activities in Houston. If your family is seeking a blend of learning and fun, this science adventure is not to be missed.

#6 Miller Outdoor Theatre

Miller Outdoor Theatre in Houston is a magical destination for families, especially with kids. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, this enchanting open-air theater offers a diverse range of performances that are perfect for young audiences. 

From captivating children’s shows to dynamic cultural performances, there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination. The theater’s unique outdoor setting in Hermann Park adds to the experience, allowing families to enjoy performances under the stars. 

With free events and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for creating unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Miller Outdoor Theatre with your kids!

#7 The Mad Potter

The Mad Potter in Houston is an enchanting destination for families, offering a unique experience of pottery painting. It’s a place where kids can unleash their creativity by choosing from a vast assortment of pottery pieces like plates, mugs, and more. 

The process is simple and fun: pick a piece, paint it using special techniques and tools designed for ease, and then take home a personal masterpiece. This venue is perfect for birthday parties, field trips, and even offers pottery painting at home. 

The Mad Potter makes for a memorable day out with kids, fostering creativity and providing a tangible memento of the experience. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking a fun, artistic activity in Houston.

#8 Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science, is a treasure trove of exhibits that fascinate visitors of all ages. From towering dinosaur skeletons to breathtaking gems and minerals, HMNS offers endless opportunities for discovery. Kids can marvel at the butterfly garden or explore the interactive exhibits in the Weiss Energy Hall, making this museum one of the most exciting places for families in the city.

#9 Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

For families who love the great outdoors, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a serene escape from the bustling city. This 155-acre nature sanctuary offers trails that wind through lush forests and vibrant wetlands, where kids can observe wildlife up close. The center also offers educational programs for children, giving them a chance to learn about the natural world while enjoying hands-on activities in a peaceful, scenic setting.

#10 The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Introduce your family to the world of art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH). The museum boasts an impressive collection of artwork from different cultures and periods, including European masterpieces, American art, and contemporary works. Families can explore the museum’s engaging family programs, such as art-making workshops and interactive tours, making it a great way to inspire creativity in children while exploring the beauty of artistic expression.

#11 The Petting Zoo

For a more hands-on animal experience, head to a petting zoo where kids can get up close with friendly animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits. Various petting zoos in and around Houston offer fun and interactive experiences where children can learn about and bond with animals in a safe, family-friendly environment.

#12 The Discovery Center

Part of the Children’s Museum Houston, the Discovery Center is an interactive wonderland designed to ignite kids’ curiosity. From hands-on science experiments to creative engineering challenges, this center allows kids to explore different fields of knowledge through play. It’s a fantastic destination for families seeking educational yet highly engaging activities in Houston.

#13 Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium offers an underwater adventure that kids will love. With over 200 species of marine life, from sharks to stingrays, this aquarium also features themed exhibits like the Sunken Temple and a rainforest exhibit. The aquarium’s Ferris wheel and outdoor rides provide added excitement, making it a full-day adventure for families looking for fun and learning.

#14 The Health Museum

For a truly unique experience, visit The Health Museum, an interactive destination dedicated to teaching families about the wonders of the human body. Kids can participate in hands-on exhibits that demonstrate how different body systems work, or even step inside a larger-than-life model of the human brain. The museum’s rotating exhibits and educational workshops make it one of the most engaging family attractions in Houston.

Conclusion

From space exploration to art and science, Houston offers an array of fun activities that are perfect for families. Whether you’re skating at The Galleria or solving puzzles at our Houston escape rooms, every day in this city is an adventure waiting to happen. Don’t miss out on these incredible things to do with kids in Houston and create memories that will last a lifetime!